All my life, all I've known is having one parent to take care of me; that's it. My mom has been the only one I have wanted in my life and the only one I've needed. I figured it was normal. But as I got older, I began to realize that it wasn't the normal thing to have. I noticed how hard it was to raise three kids on your own, but I am so thankful for my mom and the things she did for us.

1. Thank you for being my mom and dad.

You showed me that I didn’t need two parents. All I needed was one parent that cared enough for me and wanted me to succeed. You showed me that moms could be just as fun and rough as dads.

2. Thank you for giving me everything I have needed and wanted.

Even though sometimes it is hard, you give me everything I ask for. You have always made Christmas a big deal and birthdays, as well. You have helped me out of sticky situations and have stuck with me through it all.

3. Thank you for being my hero.

I have always looked up to you. Ever since I was little, I wanted to be just like you. You have and always will be my hero. You are strong, brave and courageous, how could I not want to be like you?

4. Thank you for teaching me.

You have taught me to be kind and generous. I have watched you give your whole being to your patients and I look forward to being able to do the same. Everyone you care for appreciates everything you do. You are an amazing person and I am glad to call you my parent. You have sat there and helped me study for hours upon hours and I couldn’t do it without you. You have been patient with me when I didn't understand some things, even after what seemed like the hundredth time; even when I wanted to give up.

5. Thank you for nursing me back to health even when I get you sick, too.

You were always by my side to help me when I was sick. You would get me my drink with a bendy straw and make me eat even when I didn’t want to. You have put Band-Aids on my cuts and healed all of my wounds.

6. Thank you for making me the strong person I am today.

You have taught me to stick up for myself even when I don’t want to speak up. You taught me to cherish every day that I have on this earth. You have taught me to see things from other people’s perspectives and to stand up for what I think is right. You have taught me to never back down and to do what I love.

7. Thank you for challenging me.

You have taught me to never give up on my dreams and to always reach for the stars. I strive to do better and make you proud every day. You have made me proud to call you my parent time and time again. You have always pushed me in the right direction and made me make my own decisions. You have held my hand through everything.

8. Thank you for being my everything at the end of the day.

You are my best friend and my parent, what else could I ask for? I know it was hard, but I am so thankful to have you in my life. You have helped shape me into who I am and I wouldn’t change anything about it. I love you so much.